Concerns relocation of Surrey fire station could impact response times

Concerns have been raised that the relocation of a Surrey fire station could increase emergency response times.

Banstead Fire Station is due to close in March 2027 and crews relocated nine miles away to Godstone.

Rebecca Paul, MP for Reigate, has voiced serious concerns regarding the potential impact on emergency response times due to the closure. She highlighted that average response times are set to increase across several areas, expressing the need for faster decisions in emergencies.

Paul warned: "Closing Banstead Fire Station without a suitable replacement means longer average response times for residents in the north of the borough. I do not consider this to be acceptable."

Paul detailed projected increases: "For Lower Kingswood, Tadworth and Walton, average response times will increase from 9 mins 7 secs to 10 mins 5 secs. For Chipstead, Kingswood and Woodmansterne, it will increase from 9 mins 3 secs to 10 mins 7 secs, and for Banstead village from 7 min 15 secs to 8 mins 47 secs."

The Fire Brigades Union has echoed these concerns, stating that relocating fire services to Godstone poses a higher risk to public safety.

According to the union, "Relocating its fire engine to Godstone Fire Station will inevitably lead to increased response times within the Banstead area, compromising public safety. It is widely recognised that the intensity of a typical house fire can double every minute."

To manage the relocation, Surrey County Council plans to invest nearly £800,000 in upgrading Godstone Fire Station to enhance its capacity. These efforts focus on maintaining safety standards while accommodating additional equipment and personnel.

A statement from Surrey Fire and Rescue said the current building was "not fit for a modern fire and rescue service"

It added that Banstead residents would continue to receive a service which is up to performance standards and public safety remains SFRS’s priority."

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